Overview of Photovoltaic Solar Cell R&D Capability in Canada

Executive Summary

The Canadian federal Photovoltaic Program is managed by the Department of Natural Resources Canada’s (NRCan) CANMET Energy Technology Centre-Varennes (CETCVarennes). Since 2004, the Photovoltaic Program of CETC-Varennes monitors the activities of Canadian universities in the field of photovoltaic solar cell R&D. This report details the second of a series of reviews [1] of the R&D capability in Canadian universities in the field of photovoltaic solar cells which have the intent to highlight the activities done in this area in Canada, monitor the R&D investments and facilitate the creation of partnerships.

Spurred by increasing emphasis on renewable energy development programs, both overall funding and staffing have more than tripled since the previous review. Canadian capability is for the most part funded by NSERC and the Ontario Centres of Excellence at a level of about $3.0 million per annum since 2006 and is involved in a broad range of basic research (organic solar cells, dye sensitized solar cells, thin silicon devices, etc.). An analysis of leading universities in Canada shows about 120 professional staff and graduate students in various science (chemistry, physics, materials science) and engineering (physics, chemical, electrical, computer, information technology, etc.) disciplines are involved in photovoltaic solar cell research and development. Sixty percent of the groups surveyed reported working in collaboration with a national or international manufacturing partner. Based on the current review, Canadian university capability to support research, development and implementation of photovoltaic solar cells in Canada is ample and diverse; also, as evidenced by the kind of research and the volume and quality of publications, the research is forefront and world-class.